PSL Transfer Drama: Big Moves and Bold Rumors in the January Window

The much-anticipated 2024/25 winter transfer window opened on January 1, allowing Premier Soccer League (PSL) teams to strengthen their squads. Clubs are racing against time to finalize deals, not just locally but also with players and coaches based abroad. Here are the latest developments and rumors from the transfer market:

Kaizer Chiefs Secure Glody Makabi Lilepo

Kaizer Chiefs have made a bold move by acquiring Congolese winger Glody Makabi Lilepo from French third-tier side Valenciennes FC. According to FARPost, the Soweto giants paid €500,000 (R9.6 million) for the 27-year-old, who signed a pre-contract and will join pending a medical. The Glamour Boys outmaneuvered clubs from France’s Ligue 2 and Tunisia to land the towering forward. Lilepo is expected to bolster Chiefs’ attack as they aim to recover their season.

Chippa United Eyeing Sonwabo Khumalo

Chippa United are working to strengthen their midfield, targeting Orlando Pirates’ Sonwabo Khumalo. The deal will likely be a loan agreement, reports iDiski Times. If finalized, this move could help Chippa in their fight to climb the PSL table.

Chiefs End Interest in Ruben Del Campo

While Chiefs were previously linked to Swiss striker Ruben Del Campo, iDiski Times reports that the Soweto giants have dropped their pursuit. Coach Nasreddine Nabi and his staff reportedly shifted their focus to other targets after losing interest in the 24-year-old forward. Chiefs recently signed Tashreeq Morris and are banking on Glody Makabi Lilepo to address their scoring issues.

Orlando Pirates Aim to Hijack Fawaaz Basadien Deal

Stellenbosch FC left-back Fawaaz Basadien is at the center of a transfer tug-of-war between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates. Soccer Laduma reveals that Pirates view Basadien as a potential replacement for their captain, Innocent Maela. This rivalry between the Buccaneers and Amakhosi adds intrigue to the window.

Peter Shalulile’s Future at Sundowns Uncertain

Namibian striker Peter Shalulile could be leaving Mamelodi Sundowns, with a reported asking price of R75 million. Soccer Laduma suggests clubs from the Middle East and North Africa are keen on signing the 31-year-old, who has been integral to Sundowns’ dominance. Fans are eagerly watching to see if Masandawana will lose one of their most prolific players.

Pirates Explore Swap Deal for Thabang Matuludi

Orlando Pirates are reportedly offering striker Zakhele Lepasa in a swap deal for Polokwane City full-back Thabang Matuludi. Lepasa, who is recovering from a long-term injury, has begun field-based rehabilitation. Whether the Buccaneers can pull off the swap remains to be seen.

Sundowns Target Cape Town City Defender Keanu Cupido

After securing Jayden Adams from Stellenbosch, Mamelodi Sundowns are rumored to be pursuing Cape Town City’s Keanu Cupido. The Brazilians are keen to strengthen their defense to meet the demands of domestic and international competitions.

Pirates Want Yanela Mbuthuma for the Future

Orlando Pirates have set their sights on Richards Bay striker Yanela Mbuthuma. The 22-year-old is seen as a long-term addition to their attacking lineup, despite the club already having four strikers. However, an insider told Soccer Laduma that finalizing the deal this January might be challenging.

Chiefs Sign Tashreeq Morris

Kaizer Chiefs recently signed free agent Tashreeq Morris following his short-term stint at SuperSport United. Morris will join Chiefs on a short-term contract with an option to extend, depending on his performance.

As the January transfer window heats up, fans can expect more surprises as PSL teams race to strengthen their squads. Stay tuned for updates as the drama unfolds.